learning atmosphere (Fleming). Schools contribute this atmosphere to a decrease in suspensions. Regrettably, uniforms can cause a “we gave you uniforms now you deal with discipline in class” attitude in some schools (Collie). Many administrators expect a large change so teachers are pressured into taking care of problem students on their own. The American Civil Liberties Union, or ACLU, has taken some schools to court over mandatory uniform policies that are too rigid. The ACLU looks at policies to see if they are unfair or just plain wrong. One Phoenix, Arizona middle school was taken to court because several students were suspended; the student’s parents refused to dress them in the required uniforms. One family dressed their children in homemade clothing that did not meet the requirements for a uniform. The ACLU was concerned because the school did not have a transfer-out provision. Despite this, the highest courts in Arizona upheld the middle school’s policy (Noble). The ACLU wants students to be concerned that courts say, “school is not a public forum” (Zirkel). The middle School in Phoenix was a public school.“For something as silly as a uniform, their right to free speech may be infringed;” the ACLU used this statement as a reason why the school was wrong (Zirkel). As a response the Arizona courts ruled that the students could display their freedom of speech by wearing jewelry. If jewelry is used for students to express themselves, more students might end up like the boy from Fort Lauderdale. In some schools even the jewelry is restricted. Rosaries and male earrings are considered gang related material and are not permitted (Zirkel). Many schools have experienced problems with non-compliance. In New York City many schools in lower class areas went to uniforms long before the Long Beach District. NYC schools have a large problem with drug dealers and gang members c...
